I just got my first 4x5 field camera, a Chamonix F1. It's great to finally have something less bulky than my Calumet mono-rail. With that said, I wanted to know if anyone had any recommendations for a camera backpack. I just need a good way to transport the camera, three or so lenses/boards, holders, and all the other bits and pieces that go with 4x5. Also I currently have a Manfrotto 290 tripod, are the standard Manfrotto cases the way to go for it?

05-20-2013, 07:29 AM

viridari

Outside-the-box suggestion: have a look at Maxpedition. Their bags are military grade, full of pockets, and covered in webbing from which you can accessorize with other pouches of your choosing. I use some of their smaller bags for 35mm and 120 TLR "run & gun" gear, and also one of their smaller Versipack bags to carry film holders for my Crown Graphic (but I just carry the Graflex by its built-in handle; no need for a bag in my case).

05-20-2013, 07:38 AM

David Nardi

I just use good 'ol Lowepro. I have a Super Trekker Pro for my 4x5. This bag has been discontinued. And I use the new Pro Trekker 600 AW for my 8x10. They're large bags but comfortably handle my needs. The Pro Trekker comes in 3 sizes (300, 400 & 600).

05-20-2013, 06:06 PM

Mark Fisher

I use a front opening backpack (REI version of a Kelty Red Wing). My lenses (3 plus some extra room) go in a fly fishing reel case with some extra separator that I got from Cabella's. I have a case from PhotoBackpacker for the camera, but I mostly just wrap it in the darkcloth. I can also fit in about 6 filmholders, a spot meter in a neoprene Zing case, loupe, etc in the bag somewhere. I mostly carry the camera on the tripod in the field. I think if I used LF more, I'd just get a shoulder bag to hold everything except the camera and have a separate bag for the camera and keep the camera on the tripod in the field.

05-20-2013, 07:04 PM

jnanian

you might want to check out photobackpacker.com
bruce has been a member of apug for a long long time
and from all reports his product is what others strive for!

05-20-2013, 08:21 PM

Dan Henderson

I second John's recommendation for Photobackpacker. Bought mine when I shot medium format, was easy to buy different cases when I went to 4x5. Still have the cases and can switch back if I want to dust the Hassy off some day. Was easy to repack the camera cases in a Pelican case for air travel to Cuba recently, while carrying film onboard in the modified Kelty. A truly versatile system.

05-21-2013, 04:22 AM

Doremus Scudder

I have used a largish lumbar pack in conjunction with a fly-fishing vest for a couple of decades now. The lumbar pack has a shoulder strap as well, so never has to touch the ground. I simply unbuckle the hip belt and use it slung to one side, strap cross-body, and work directly from it.

I find this set-up allows me more freedom to scramble, climb and hike and is more balanced than a backpack.

Best,

Doremus

05-21-2013, 10:31 AM

Mark_S

1 Attachment(s)

I like my Panda 402 from Kata - it has the ability to separate the main compartment into two, which I have divided into an upper which holds my film holders and lenses, and a lower compartment where I keep the camera. There is a front pocket which holds all the other stuff (loupe, meter, etc). The pack has a zippered compartment which allows the straps to be enclosed, and the ability to add a wheelie thingie which makes it easier to travel with through airports. The one complaint that I have with it is the method for tripod attachment - it has facility to hold a tripod strapped to the side of the pack, but I think that this is because I have such a heavy tripod, need to invest in a C.F. tripod....Attachment 69111

05-21-2013, 10:54 PM

Atari1977

Well I checked photobackpacker, unfortunately their new backpacks aren't ready yet. In the meantime I've bought a camera case, and cases for my lenses. I'm just going to use a regular backpack to transport it until I can complete the photobackpacker system.

05-22-2013, 09:33 AM

Kevin Kehler

I bought a Lowepro Rover Pro AW (what an awkward name!) a couple of weeks ago in order to do hiking/backpacking. I can put 40lbs of camera gear in it and walk for 2 hours without any real discomfort. If anything, I realized the need for a lighter tripod. However, the pack is great and very well thought out. I can put my 5x7 and related gear into it or I also had a full RZ kit in it with plenty of room. I would like one of the photobackpacker cases for the 5x7 but need to measure my bag first.